Asphalt shingles, which are the most economical type of shingles, are one of the best roofing materials you can get at the moment. They come in different designs and sizes, with their costs depending on these aspects.
On average, asphalt roof shingles cost between $8,000 and $9,000, with some going as low as $5,000 and others as high as $12,000 or even higher. Some other types of shingles, such as solar shingles, clay shingles, and others, cost as much as $70,000. The total cost also depends on the size of the roof.
From my experience, you shouldn’t try to install or repair a shingle roof yourself. Even with high DIY skills, I found it difficult to do so myself. It also increases the risk of long-term problems which may cost you a lot. Instead, enlist the services of a qualified contractor for these tasks.
What is the average roof shingle price?
The cost of asphalt three-tab shingles is $1-2 per square foot. Generally, the cost of roofing shingles is expressed in squares, with a single square consisting of 100 square feet of shingles. Since a bundle of roofing shingles is around 33.3 square feet, 3 bundles make one roofing square.
When budgeting for roofing shingles, add 10-15% to account for wastage since a few will break or be intentionally broken up to fit corners and other places. Budget for the labor costs as well given that working with shingles is dangerous and requires professional services. Putting a ladder on a sloped roof, for example, is very dangerous if not done right.
Cost of roof shingles per material
The costs of roofing shingles for different materials are as follows:
| Shingle Material | Cost per square ($) |
| Asphalt | 90 |
| Metal | 275 – 400 |
| Clay | 300 – 1000 |
| Wood | 350 – 500 |
| Composite | 400 |
| Solar | 2,200 |
| Aluminum | 850 |
| Slate | 1200 |
1. Asphalt shingles cost
Basic black, brown, and gray three-tab asphalt shingles cost about $90 per square. Since asphalt is an oil byproduct, the price of asphalt shingles depends on the worldwide oil price.
There are basic and architectural asphalt shingles, with the latter being the more expensive of the two (although not by much). Architectural asphalt shingles have heavy fiberglass bases with ceramic-coated mineral granules. Asphalt shingles last for up to 90 years with proper care.
2. Metal shingles cost
Metal shingles cost around $400 per square. However, they cost as much as $1,200 when they are premium and stamped to look like wood.
Metal shingles differ from standing seam metal roofing that is installed in large sheets rather than shingles. Metal roofing is generally costly compared to other materials.
3. Clay shingles cost
Clay shingles cost $300 – 1,000 per square. The high cost also comes with the advantage of durability, with clay shingles able to last as long as 100 years or even more. In most cases, proper care is all that is needed to achieve this level of longevity.
4. Wood shingles cost
Wood shingles cost $300 – 500 per square. You can find wood shingles either as shingles or shakes. The shingles look like all other types of shingles (flat and of the same size). The shakes, however, have irregular thickness and size, giving off a rustic look and feel.
5. Composite shingles cost
Composite shingles cost from $400 upwards. While you can have them look like normal asphalt shingles, you can color and texture them to have a unique look for your house. In fact, composite shingles are the most adaptable type of shingles.
6. Solar shingles cost
Also called solar roof tiles, solar shingles cost from $15,000 upwards, depending on the technology used to make them. Most solar roof vendors charge $15,000 – 20,000 per roof, while Tesla charges around $70,000 for a similarly-sized roof.
7. Aluminum shingles cost
Aluminum shingles are among the most expensive options, and at $850 per square, they’re reserved for specific types of buildings. Luckily, aluminum shingles last for 50-80 years and are also durable and lightweight.
8. Slate shingles cost
Slate shingles cost about $1,200 per square and can last over 100 years. They’re made from natural rock and are thus heavy. You need to install extra support when using them for this reason.
Most roofing shingles are quiet and won’t cause much noise from above. If you use metal roofing, however, you may need to reduce upstairs and roofing noises to have a quiet indoors.
What determines the cost of a shingle roof?
The main cost factors for a shingle roof include the following:
1. Shingle materials
The main materials for shingles include asphalt, metal, wood, clay, solar, and composite. Each of them has its own cost. Besides that, there is the cost of the materials used for the ridge vent, caulk, nails, flashing, and many others.
2. Labor
Given the job’s complexity, you’re likely to hire an expert in shingle installation. Labor costs contribute as much as 50-60% of the total costs of installing a shingle roof.
It also depends on whether you’re installing new shingles or replacing old ones. Replacements also require costs towards tearing and disposing of the old shingles.
3. Roofing sealant
The roofing sealant is what holds the shingles to the roof and varies depending on the type of shingles you’re installing.
4. Roof height and pitch
The height and pitch of the roof will either add to or subtract from the complexity of the installation process, hence affecting the cost of the installation. If the roof is high and has a high pitch as well, you’ll incur more.
5. Repair vs replacement
Depending on the health of your roof, you will either install a new roof or simply replace a few sections with shingles. Generally, installations and replacements cost more than repairs.
6. Brand of shingles
Even with similar materials, different shingle brands will have different pricing levels. Tamko and IKO, for example, have higher prices than GAF and Owens Corning.
Before choosing the costlier one for being premium, confirm that it’s better than the cheaper options.
7. Warranty coverage
The length of a warranty on roof shingles signifies the quality of the tiles. Most shingle brands offer limited lifetime warranties on shingles prorated based on the shingles’ age. Simply put, go for a longer and more comprehensive warranty.
Signs that you need a new shingle roof
If you already have a shingle roof, you should look out for these signs that you need a new roof:
1. Light coming through the attic
If you see large beams of light coming through the attic coupled with water stains, you need a new roof. Don’t confuse this with light from the soffit, ridge, and gable vents.
2. The shingles are curling
If you see your shingles curling on the edges (cupping) or in the middle (clawing), you must replace them before they allow water to wreak havoc on the rest of the building. Most shingles will only curl when old and nearing the end of their useful life.
3. Missing or cracked shingles
Always inspect your roof after a hailstorm, ice dam, or extreme weather conditions since the shingles (or other roofing materials) can be damaged.
If a few shingles are damaged, you can simply have them replaced by an expert. Carry out extensive roof repairs if many of them are missing due to extreme weather or old age.
4. The roof has neared its lifetime
Depending on the roof’s age, you should gauge how long you have till a new one is installed. The typical ages for roofing materials include the following:
| Material | Age in years |
| Asphalt | 25 – 20 |
| Metal | 40 – 70 |
| Clay | 50 – 100 |
| Wood | Cedar: 30 – 50 Wallaba: 35 – 60 Teak: 50 – 80 |
| Composite | 40 – 50 |
| Solar | 25 – 30 |
| Slate | 100 |
Determine the age of the new house you just moved in the following ways:
- Ask the previous owner or landlord.
- Check on the roof’s building permit.
- Ask the house’s roofer.
- Inspect the roof for an age estimate.
That way, you can discern if the roof is due for repair or replacement.
5. Shingle granules in your gutters
If your roof is over a decade old and you see granules in your gutters, it’s a clear sign that the shingles are breaking up and the roof needs a replacement. In most cases, you must inspect the roof to establish this.
6. Moss and algae on the roof
While most shingles are resistant to mold and algae, the presence of these two on the roof means the protective layer is wearing off. While it’s not an urgent issue, moss and algae can damage the roof to a large extent.
In this case, you can clean or replace the roof, especially if it is old.
Summary
Roofing shingles are some of the most beautiful and reliable roofing materials. They don’t cost too much and, when installed properly, they can last for a very long time. If you need to know if you need a new roof and its cost, consult an expert in your area today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace 1000 sq ft of roof?
The roof cost by house size is as follows:
| Size of house (sq ft) | Roof cost ($) |
| 1,000 | 4,500 – 6,000 |
| 1,500 | 6,750 – 9,000 |
| 2,000 | 9,000 – 12,000 |
| 2,500 | 11,250 – 15,000 |
| 3,000 | 13,500 – 18,000 |
How long does a 40-year shingle roof last?
Premium shingles are expensive but last for at least 25 to 40 years once installed properly and cared for. Arthcteurcal or dimensional shingles, on the other hand, are cheaper but last for 20 – 30 years with proper installation and care.
How many years does a shingle roof last?
If properly installed, ventilated, and maintained, shingle roofs last between 80-85% of their stated lifespans. A 3-tab shingle roof lasts for 20-22 years, a dimensional one lasts for 25-28 years, while a premium shingle roof lasts for 25-40 years.